updated 02:40 pm EST, Thu December 21, 2006

AvMap GeoSat 5 GPS

AvMap has just unveiled one of the few truly international GPS units, the GeoSat 5. Where most receivers ship are only available with one region's map data, Italy-based AvMap gives a choice of territories. The handheld can be bundled with a 2GB SD card that stores either European or North American map data with points of interest; more cost-conscious drivers can also specify a one-country edition with a 512MB card.

Map data is also generalized, AvMap emphasizes, and can be swapped freely between the GeoSat 5 and Windows Mobile PDAs with an SD card slot. The 5-inch touchscreen can also be repurposed through AV input jacks to display media from a DVD player or other sources. The entry-level model with a 512MB card ships now for $590, while the continent-wide models are sold for $710. [Via NaviGadget]